Acu-Rite CNC 3500i User Manual

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ACU-RITE 3500i
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Writing Programs
The 3500i allows many features to be used without having to write a 
program. But for operations that repeat or complex machining it is best 
to write a program. Before you start to write a program, determine the 
work-holding device and the location of Part Zero (the point to which 
all movement is referenced). Since absolute positions are defined 
from Part Zero, try to select a location that directly corresponds to 
dimensions provided on the part print, such as the lower left corner of 
the work. Then, you can develop a program using a procedure similar 
to the one that follows:
The first block of a program is a safe starting position.  This is where 
the tool-change position (a location away from the work area where 
the axes can return for safe tool changing) is input. The first block 
includes the units of measurement (Inch/MM), mode of operation 
(Absolute), move type (Rapid), and to cancel all auxiliary functions 
(Tool Offsets, Spindle, and Coolant).  This is the same as in g-code 
(e.g. typical first blocks:  G70, G90, G0, G28, Z0, & M5). Refer to 
chapter 11 "G-Code on page 364”.
Subsequent blocks in the program set Spindle information, call Tool 
number, turn on Coolant, and make the initial move toward the 
work.
The remaining blocks in the program describe the required moves, 
Canned Cycles, and Tool changes to complete the machining.
The next to the last block in the program returns the axes to the Tool 
change position, turning off any auxiliary functions (Tool Offsets, 
Spindle, and Coolant). The last block , EndMain, (M2) ends the 
program.  This is the same as in g-code (e.g. typical last blocks:  M5, 
G0, T0, X0, Y0, Z0, M9; M2). Refer to chapter 11 "M-Code List on 
page 368”
.
After writing a program, verify it. Run it in Draw Mode to troubleshoot 
for errors. Verify that all programmed moves are safe, and accurate 
to the part print dimensions.
Load the stock material into the selected work-holding device.
Set the Tool Offsets for each tool in the Tool Page.
Before running the part in the Auto Mode, run it in Single-Step Mode 
to verify that both the program and the setting of Tool Offsets have 
been correctly completed. Single-Step Mode allows you to execute 
the program block-by-block.
After testing the program, make any necessary corrections.
When the finished program is ready for production, back it up on a 
USB memory device.